Howard University vs University of Rochester

Howard University is the more selective of the two at 34%, versus 34% at University of Rochester. Here is how they compare on selectivity, test scores, and what they weigh, plus a free way to estimate your odds at each.

Howard University
Selective
34%
acceptance rate
SAT 75th pct: 1280
Private · Washington, D.C.
University of Rochester
Selective
34%
acceptance rate
SAT 75th pct: 1460
Private · New York

Howard University vs University of Rochester: the differences that matter

How Howard University and University of Rochester stack up on selectivity, scores, and what they value.

Howard University and University of Rochester are almost equally selective (34% vs 34%), so neither is a clear safety relative to the other. Your odds at each come down to fit, not headline difficulty.

The two also read applications a little differently. Howard University leans more on class rank, standardized test scores, while University of Rochester puts more weight on application essay, recommendations, extracurricular activities. The same profile can land differently at each, which is why a per-school estimate matters more than a single GPA.

On test scores, Howard University's admitted 75th-percentile SAT is around 1280 and University of Rochester's is around 1460. Admitted students at University of Rochester post somewhat higher scores. Run your own numbers below to see where you stand at each.

What each school weighs

Factors either school weighs heavily, side by side.

FactorHoward UniversityUniversity of Rochester
Rigor of secondary school recordvery importantvery important
Academic GPAvery importantvery important
Class rankimportantconsidered
Standardized test scoresvery importantimportant
Application essayimportantvery important
Recommendationsimportantvery important
Extracurricular activitiesconsideredimportant
Talent / abilityconsideredimportant
Calculate your chances at both →

Frequently asked questions

Is Howard University or University of Rochester harder to get into?

Howard University is harder to get into, with a 34% acceptance rate versus 34% at University of Rochester.

What's the difference in SAT scores between Howard University and University of Rochester?

Howard University's admitted 75th-percentile SAT is around 1280, and University of Rochester's is around 1460.

What are my chances at Howard University and University of Rochester?

That depends on your full profile. CollegeCalcAI gives a free, personalized estimate for each school in a few minutes.